This species is North America’s most numerous catfish species, widespread throughout lower Canada, eastern and northern United States, and parts of Mexico. They are able to thrive in small and large rivers, reservoirs, natural lakes, and ponds. Their extremely well-developed senses of taste and smell allow these eager omnivores to find food even in the murkiest of conditions
Undersea Conversations…
While it isn’t obvious, fish have ears, and are able to communicate to one another through sounds. They don’t have vocal chords, but instead vibrate their swim bladders, producing popping, grunting, moaning, barking, or chirping noises. While some species of fish, like the goldfish, are silent listeners, there are over 1000 species that are known to vocalize, and some, like the gurnard who are veritable chatterboxes. While we can’t have a conversation with them - at least not yet - it is theorized that they do it to attract mates, frighten away predators or competitors, to synchronize mating, call for help and warn others, or to orient themselves.
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Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
